Brave In Any Language: Two West High Students Earn Seal of Biliteracy

Hazelwood West High is celebrating multilingual excellence as two students earned the Missouri Seal of Biliteracy by demonstrating proficiency in English and another language.

Pricilla Castillo earned the Seal in Spanish, and Edu Karnaja earned it in Swahili. The Seal of Biliteracy is a prestigious, state-recognized honor that takes years of learning and dedication. 

“The Seal of Biliteracy is not something students earn overnight. It takes years of learning, growth, and persistence to maintain multiple languages,” Dr. Sheri Lawson, Coordinator of English Learner, Immigrant, and Migrant Education Services, said. 

To earn the Seal, students must demonstrate strong English proficiency through the ACCESS test, English 2 EOC (End-of-Course), or ACT. They are also required to meet rigorous criteria in another language in reading, writing, listening, and speaking. 

“It represents a real commitment to becoming and staying biliterate,” Dr. Lawson said. 

Earning the Seal of Biliteracy not only reflects strong communication skills and dedication, but it may also provide college credit opportunities. 

“Personally, this one means a lot to me. One of these students was actually in my EL classroom when I taught at West, so seeing that student now earn the Seal of Biliteracy feels really full circle.” 

“I also love that this year’s recipients represent both Spanish and Swahili,” Dr. Lawson continued. “Our multilingual students come to us with incredible linguistic and cultural strengths, and I think it is important that we celebrate all languages and all pathways to biliteracy. The Seal of Biliteracy helps send the message that multilingualism is an asset, not a barrier.” 

The Department of English Learner, Immigrant, and Migrant Services at HSD uses the motto ‘Brave in Any Language’, and Castillo and Karanja embody that message. By earning the Seal of Biliteracy, they are also setting an example for fellow students to follow. 

“These students are opening doors not just for themselves, but for younger multilingual learners who are watching them,” Dr. Lawson said. “Their achievement shows students across our District that their languages, cultures, and stories matter. That is something worth celebrating.”